With the artificial limb centre at government Rajindra hospital reeling under government apathy, free distribution the artificial limbs by Jaipur-based non-government organisation (NGO) Mahavir International proved a boon for 27 differently-abled patients.

The camp organised by the NGO gave a ray of hope to differently-abled people. After getting new artificial limbs joy knew no bounds for Raja Ram (50), a vegetable seller, whose legs were damaged due some disease eight years ago.

Being the lone breadwinner of the family, he could not spare enough money to get treatment. "These new legs have added to the happiness to my entire family as life had become difficult for me due to my disability. Feeding the family and meeting my medical expenses was not easy for me," Raja Ram said.

The general secretary of the NGO, Sushil Kaura, said to benefit maximum differently-abled people, pamphlets were distributed in the surrounding villages a month before the medical camp."Many octogenarians, who turned up at the camp, got artificial limbs made for the first time. They were also given on-the-spot training on using artificial limbs," Kaura said.

The limb-maker of the NGO, Vinod, said sets of full legs, half legs, belts for thighs, arm sets, shoes for flat feet and polio patients, knee covers along with knee benders were distributed during the camp.

Ditteshwar (7), the youngest beneficiary, said, "Now I can walk and do my chores. I can become more independent and play like other children." General secretary of the blind and deaf organisation, Patiala, Col Karminder (retd) said from next year, the camp would be conducted twice a year.